Smart Home Security Systems

Smart home automation has revolutionized the way we live, making our homes and lives more convenient, connected, and secure. Security, unsurprisingly, is one of the most valued features of automation among homeowners. After all, in large urban cities like Los Angeles, 24/7 home protection is invaluable.

Whether you’re just researching or considering an upgrade, today’s blog covers everything you need to know, from how these systems work to the benefits they provide. You’ll learn how a smart security system for home protection can integrate seamlessly with your lifestyle to deliver peace of mind anytime, anywhere.

What makes smart home security systems “smart”? Basically, they enable various devices, like cameras, locks, alarms, motion sensors, doorbells, and even lights, to communicate seamlessly with each other through a central hub or a mobile app. These capabilities allow you to monitor and control everything in real-time, whether you’re on the couch or across town.

Thanks to advancing technology, smart home security systems are more accessible than ever, bringing reliable protection to homes of all sizes and budgets. Older security setups typically involved extensive wiring of devices together, which also usually required professional monitoring. Today’s smart systems are much more user-friendly and customizable. Rather than relying exclusively on extensive wiring, most run on WiFI and offer control through apps and voice assistants. They also feature automation rules, creating a security solution that effortlessly adapts to your needs.

Smart home security systems put safety and control at your fingertips. These systems integrate various features that work together to safeguard and monitor your residence 24/7, from anywhere.

Smart Locks and Entry Sensors

Home security systems with smart locks and entry sensors are like having a personal doorman. No matter where you are, whether in the backyard or out of town, you can remotely engage and disengage your locks in seconds. Forget bulky keyrings, as smart locks can control access in seconds with just a tap. Door and window sensors are essential for detecting unauthorized entry, sending instant alerts when something opens when it shouldn’t.

Security Cameras and Video Monitoring

Today’s smart home security systems are the eye in the sky above your home, relaying what’s happening in high definition. With advanced features like night vision, motion detection, and mobile access, nothing escapes notice. For example, a PTZ Camera installation offers homeowners wide-area coverage, motion detection, and, in some models, programmed audio alerts that trigger when motion is detected within a designated area. A smart home security camera system can be programmed to send instant alerts, allowing you to view the action indoors and out in real-time, even review or save footage as needed.

Mobile Apps and Remote Control

Ready for 24/7 peace of mind? The integrated monitoring of a smart home security system is fully accessible and controllable in seconds from anywhere you’re connected. These systems offer remote control via a central system or app, allowing you to check in, make adjustments, and receive alerts at any time, from anywhere.

Professional Monitoring vs DIY

The flexibility of smart home security systems extends to monitoring, offering both professional and self-monitoring options. Professional services provide a dedicated security company that continuously monitors your system 24/7. For a monthly fee, they can act on your behalf when alerted. DIY monitoring sends alerts directly to your phone or device in real-time, rather than to another entity. This places full control in your hands and bypasses a monthly monitoring fee. However, it also holds you responsible for taking action when an event occurs. Each has its own advantages, and the right choice depends on your lifestyle and comfort level.

A smart home security system, whether an independent system or integrated into your home automation, offers more than just peace of mind. Other benefits include convenience and savings.

Peace Of Mind For Families

The level of monitoring a smart home security system provides is comforting, especially when it comes to other family members. Real-time, remote monitoring of security features can alert you when kids arrive home from school or allow you to check in on elderly relatives with ease.

Remote Monitoring And Control

You can manage your home’s security from anywhere with just a few taps, thanks to remote monitoring and control. From communicating with people at your door when you’re away to remotely turning on lights to welcome you home, you are in the driver’s seat with effortless security and convenience.

Insurance Advantages

Many insurance companies offer discounts on homeowners’ policies when a monitored security system is in place. Smart home security systems reduce risk, often reducing premiums while increasing your protection.

Integration With Other Smart Devices

Smart home security systems can integrate with other home automation features, creating a connected sanctuary. These systems can connect with smart lights, thermostats, or voice assistants, automating lifestyle choices like turning on lights when motion is detected or adjusting settings when you leave the house.

Choosing the best smart home security system for your space depends on several factors, like home size, budget, and more.

Home Size

The size of the home often determines the number of devices you need for protection and monitoring. For example, a 600 sq ft apartment will have different protective requirements than a 6,000 sq ft home.

Budget

Just like residential audio video solutions, systems vary in cost depending on the type and scope. It’s important to consider all costs, including upfront expenses for equipment and installation, as well as any ongoing subscription or monitoring fees. The best smart home security system for your needs should strike a balance between your budget and security preferences.

Integration With Other Home Automation

An integrated home ecosystem makes automation easier while providing more convenience and control. Therefore, consider a smart home security system that integrates with existing smart features, such as thermostats, lighting, or AV systems.

Installation Preferences

Although many smart home security systems are installation-ready and easy to DIY, some larger or more integrated systems may benefit from professional installation. This can be especially true when integrating the system with existing smart home automation. Therefore, installation costs should factor into your decision.

Long-Term Subscriptions/Fees

We already mentioned that some smart security system for home monitoring can include security company fees. However, other more common costs to consider are cloud storage fees for video footage or app-based services that come with recurring charges. Therefore, it’s important to understand what’s included with the system, what’s optional, and what ongoing costs might look like over time.

Like any technology, there are always concerns about privacy, internet dependence, and hidden costs. Understanding these concerns can also help inform your decision.

Privacy and Hacking Risks

Privacy and security concerns are common with any internet-based service. Fortunately, smart home security systems from trusted brands use strong encryption, two-factor authentication, and regular software updates to protect your information.

Internet and Power Dependence

If you are worrying about coverage during an outage, the smart home security system maker likely is too. That’s why many systems include offline modes or local storage, so essential functions still operate without an internet connection. Some systems also include battery backups and power-saving modes to help functionality during outages.

Costs and Hidden Fees

As previously mentioned, some systems include subscription fees for features like cloud video storage, professional monitoring, or app-based automation. Some systems also charge for additional features beyond a basic package, such as extra cameras or sensors. Therefore, it’s essential to ask questions and research the package costs, including what is required and what is optional, to avoid surprises when budgeting.

Advancing technology has and will continue to drive advances in smart home security systems. Many systems already offer facial recognition, allowing them to automatically grant access to trusted individuals while notifying you of unfamiliar faces. Additionally, AI is enabling systems to become more intelligent and responsive. Integration is also advancing, allowing seamless interoperability between other smart home devices. For example, a new connectivity protocol called Matter acts as a universal translator, allowing devices from different manufacturers to work together seamlessly across wireless networks.

As an industry leader in smart home automation and home security systems, MIR Audio Video has helped protect Los Angeles residents with cutting-edge home security technologies for over a decade.

Our certified, experienced team works directly with homeowners and renters in Los Angeles to design and install smart home security systems tailored to your unique needs. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, we begin every installation with a thorough consultation to assess your home and recommend reliable security measures tailored to your lifestyle. We also ensure seamless integration with any existing smart home features, creating a system that’s both effective and effortless to use.

As an established, locally owned, and operated company, we are well-versed in regional security regulations and building codes. However, at the heart of our business is relationships. At MIR, customer service and satisfaction are paramount to the success of smart home security system installations, from consultation to setup and follow-up.